Smartphone Features For a Home Phone Line

VoIP provider Ooma’s new $60 handset, available in March, has a 2″ color LCD screen, and links with Facebook to provide the caller’s picture and name when available. Users can as well designate different ringtones for different callers — that way, there’s no need to go racing for the phone when the “Jaws” theme announces it’s an unknown, probably telemarketer’s number. Or worse, your mother.

Of course, to make use of the handset, you’ll need to be signed up for Ooma. That entails a $200 base unit that connects with an existing home Internet connection. Ooma phone service offers free domestic calling, with users paying just taxes and fees for monthly access.

Experts typically warn of crackly connections for VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) service, however an Ooma spokesman says the device boasts “crystal clear, HD sound.”